At its core, “Grumpy the Iguana” is a gentle exploration of how one’s world can be shattered by unexpected change. The protagonist is not born "Grumpy"; in fact, he begins the story as a happy creature whose happiness is rooted in the simple, rhythmic safety of his daily routine in Miami’s Flamingo Park. When his home—a beloved tree—is cut down, the loss of his physical space leads to the loss of his identity, transforming him into the irritable character of the title.

Brighter days shine when the Green Parrot is introduced. Rather than offering toxic positivity or trying to "fix" the iguana, the parrot offers something more profound: presence and compassion, recognizing “Grumpy” just needs a friend, and “someone to understand.”

Susan Marie Chapman handles the concept of grief and loss with a lightness suitable for young children. The book doesn't shy away from the fact that Grumpy is, well, grumpy. It validates the idea that it is okay to be upset when things go wrong.

Through the Green Parrot, the book illustrates empathy, and how being a "true friend" often means just listening and providing a safe space for someone to be unhappy until they are ready to move on.

“Grumpy the Iguana” will resonate with children who have difficulty with transitions or sensory changes. The story is particularly effective for children who thrive on routine as it mirrors the anxiety kids feel when their "schedule" is disrupted.

Natalia Loseva’s illustrations are the perfect palette for the book. Her watercolor style is vibrant and lush, capturing the tropical warmth of Florida. In addition, the character design of the iguana’s expressions are highly communicative, making his internal emotions clear to even the youngest "readers" who are just looking at the pictures. The art balances the "heaviness" of the theme with bright, cheerful colors, ensuring the tone of the book remains an uplifting experience overall. While the message is powerful, the layout’s varying font sizes and colors are bold textual shifts emphasizing key emotional words and keep readers engaged.

“Grumpy the Iguana” is a charming, emotionally intelligent addition to any child's library. It manages to turn a "bad day" into a lifelong lesson on the power of friendship and the ability to find a "new normal" after a loss. It is a compassionate read that treats a child's feelings with the respect they deserve. The story teaches important lessons about change and empathy in an easy observant narrative. It is the first book in “A Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventure” series.